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The Notorious B.I.G.

The Notorious B.I.G., also known as Biggie Smalls and Christopher Wallace, was an American rapper from Brooklyn, New York.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Notorious B.I.G., also known as Biggie Smalls and Christopher Wallace, was an American rapper from Brooklyn, New York. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential hip-hop artists of the 1990s, especially in East Coast gangsta rap.

Early life

Christopher Wallace was born in Brooklyn, New York, and grew up there before entering the hip-hop scene.

Music career

He rose to prominence in the 1990s with his distinctive delivery and storytelling, releasing major hits and two landmark albums through Bad Boy Records. His debut album, Ready to Die, was released in 1994, and Life After Death was released posthumously in 1997.

Death and legacy

Wallace was killed in Los Angeles in 1997, and his death remains a major event in hip-hop history. His work continues to be cited as highly influential. He is frequently described as one of the greatest and most influential rappers of all time.

Style and influence

Sources describe his lyrical style as relaxed, distinctive, and influential, with a major impact on East Coast rap and later generations of artists.

Key facts

  • The Notorious B.I.G. was a prominent figure in 1990s East Coast hip-hop and gangsta rap.
  • His debut album, Ready to Die, was released in 1994, and Life After Death was released posthumously in 1997.
  • He was shot and killed in Los Angeles on March 9, 1997.
  • He is frequently described as one of the greatest and most influential rappers of all time.
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Canadian context

The Notorious B.I.G. remains a major influence on Canadian hip-hop artists and listeners, particularly through his role in shaping 1990s East Coast rap and mainstream rap storytelling.

Frequently asked questions

Who was The Notorious B.I.G.?
He was an American rapper and songwriter from Brooklyn, New York, known for his major role in 1990s hip-hop.
What was The Notorious B.I.G.'s real name?
His birth name was Christopher George Latore Wallace.
What were his stage names?
He was also known as Biggie Smalls and Biggie.
When was he born and when did he die?
He was born on May 21, 1972, and died on March 9, 1997.
What are his best-known albums?
His best-known albums are Ready to Die and the posthumous Life After Death.
Why is he significant?
He is widely regarded as one of the most influential and greatest rappers of all time, especially in East Coast hip-hop.

References

  1. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/biography/The-Notorious-B-I-G
    Supports: Birth/death dates, birthplace, alternate name Biggie Smalls, and his importance in 1990s gangsta rap.
  2. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Notorious_B.I.G.
    Supports: Full birth name, stage names, genre context, and general biographical details.
  3. Biography.com — https://www.biography.com/musicians/biggie-smalls
    Supports: Birth details, death in 1997, East Coast hip-hop role, and broad significance.
  4. EBSCO Research Starters — https://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/history/notorious-big
    Supports: Career overview, Ready to Die, Life After Death, influence on East Coast hip-hop, and key songs.
  5. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0857263/bio/
    Supports: Birth and death dates, birth name variation, nicknames, and homicide death note.
  6. Wikipedia — https://www.fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Notorious_B.I.G.
    Supports: General classification as rapper and producer, and recognition as one of the greatest rappers.